On Wednesday, May 6, the Pastoral Meeting for priests and pastoral workers serving the Vicariate across the United Arab Emirates was held at St. Paul’s Church in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi.

The monthly meeting was held after a longer interval than usual, in light of recent regional developments and the resulting adjustments to schedules.

In his address, Bishop Paolo Martinelli highlighted the generous dedication of the clergy and emphasized the importance of the numerous initiatives of prayer for peace, which have seen wide participation of the faithful across the Vicariate, including ecumenical gatherings.

During the meeting, participants shared experiences, discussed pastoral responses, and reflected on the challenges encountered—and those still ongoing—in parishes across the UAE, as they continue to respond pastorally to the wider regional situation.

The welcome of the faithful—and the ministries that sustain it—was among the pastoral priorities discussed, together with preparations for the 800th anniversary of the death (Transitus) of Saint Francis of Assisi.

The meeting concluded with a moment of fraternal sharing and the joyful celebration of the birthday of Michael Fernandes, Custos of the Capuchin Custody of Arabia.